Have Acquired A 2003 Celica

[SRM_UK]

Hello all,

Just joined the forum today since recently acquiring a 2003 Celica, I'll post up some pics once I'm on the laptop. It's a 1.8 VVTi Premium + Sport pack in black with touch screen CD/DVD player, with built in reverse camera (bit unnecessary really) and 17" non standard black alloys and 60k miles.

This new ownership all happened by chance really; my brother previously owned the car, in total it's only had three owners including me. It's been very well looked after, not a single scratch and the paintwork is perfect.

One evening in September I think my brother thought he was driving a Land Rover Defender or something as he ingeniously drove his low slung sports coupe through two foot of water, unfortunately water got got sucked into the engine, which killed the car.

It's been sitting doing nothing since September and being the car enthusiast that I am, could not let this happen. My brother now drives a long wheel based van for work....great for him as it goes through puddles better, great for me as I've been wanting to change my car for a while now.

My question is; I can source a new engine no problem, and I've budgeted £1200 inc fitting (rough estimate). Does anyone here know of any reliable specialists near or within a few miles of CM6 (Dunmow, Essex), who can fit the engine? And is my budget ambitious or about right? Are there any problems I should look out for with these cars? Whilst it's being worked on I'll get any known niggles sorted at the same time.

Thanks in advance for any replies & suggestions.

[FROSTYBALLS]

Hello Simon - welcome to Toyota Owners Club.